Bring Cash, Use ATM's or plastic?

[minnjim]

What do y'all recommend? Are ATM's available? Do most/many places take credit cards? Or should I bring suicases of Benjamins?

[Nic in KC]

I wouldn't rely on ATMs, I know there was one or two, but they aren't all over the place and I think I heard that their reliability isn't great.

We used cash for most of our eating and drinking, ferry, gas station, etc. We did use a card when out shopping for larger purchases, booking day trips or a more expensive meal. Most places would take a debit card, but I think there were a couple that didn't, I just can't remember who. I'm sure someone will chime in. We kept our extra cash locked in the safe at the villa.

[Diana2]

I use plastic when and wherever possible (I like to rack up the miles you see). However I always bring some cash too for those few places that don't take plastic (i.e. the gas station on Coral Bay and taxis and ferry plus tipping). Most expenses go on the card.

[Ksea]

$100 a day cash for solo traveler. $200 a day cash for 2-3 people. We also take a credit card for things that are more easily paid for that way, or in case of emergency!

[jayseadee]

We also use credit card whenever possible; how else will we get the FF for the next trip.

We also take a few travelers checks rather than carry cash or have to rely on the ATMs.

[chicagoans]

Most places take credit cards. We used credit cards for all groceries, restaurants, and purchases (e.g. rash guards, hats, etc.) I actually came home with about half the cash I brought. We paid cash for cabs to/from airport, tips (boat captain), gas, and little things like smoothies.

We traveled with a group, and we would just initial our receipts and throw them into a bowl on the counter. Then we settled up on our last day. Painless!

[flip-flop]

I go with Amex whenever and whereever possible. Cash is my 2nd choice. ATMs usually are fine but I found several - at different locations - to be down for a couple of days in November. Not sure what was up with that, but it could have been a problem.

[sailorgirl]

I'm with Flip, but I did find that a number of places did not take Amex. Of cousre right now I can't think of which ones

[liamsaunt]

I hate traveling with cash so put everything I can on the amex (rewards points!). I also carry a visa for the places that don't take amex. I do bring down enough $$ to cover ferries, tipping, etc., random lunches, but have also relied on the atms. The one in town has always seemed to work (at least when I've been there), and I've also used the atm outside of starfish market.